Book cover of Human Action: A Treatise on Economics

Book description

In Human Action, Mises starts from the ideas set forth in his Theory and History that all actions and decisions are based on human needs, wants, and desires and continues deeper and further to explain how studying this human action is not only a legitimate science (praxeology) but how that…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

3 authors picked Human Action as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Mises was often referred to as the “godfather of Austrian Economics” for his voluminous contributions to economic science. This book is his most well-known and hefty treatise. 

Mises expertly walks the reader through his explanation of economics being a branch of praxeology, the study of the implications of human action. With a passionate writing style, Mises pulls no punches on his critics while providing the reader with a graduate-level economic education without the often-confusing technical jargon academic courses often impose on students.

Mises uses explanatory language rather than mathematical equations and graphs to make his points. The book is not…

From Brian's list on books to learn Austrian economics.

Human Action is Ludwig von Mises's magnum opus.

It is the best Treatise on Economics ever written. It is systematic, complete, and concise. I have read Human Action in three languages, German, English, and Spanish. While the beginning may be rough, the effort is worth it. Every responsible citizen should read it.

Any responsible citizen should know how the economy works, because if he does not know he may be fooled by politicians that promise impossible things. So how can you vote as a responsible citizen on policies if you do not know the consequences of these policies?

From Philipp's list on Austrian economics.

This is the most rewarding book in economics—maybe in all of social science—if you’re willing to be patient and attentive (no math, statistical equations, or even graphs, but this is not light reading). Human Actions treatment of economics is comprehensive, tackling questions from the philosophical—What, for example, is the nature of economic laws?—to the practical—What do those laws mean for, say, regulating the price of milk? A true tour de force, this book changed how I think about the world, and it might do the same for you. Just remember what I said about patience and attentiveness!

From Peter's list on economics and political economy.

If you love Human Action...

Ad

Book cover of The High House

The High House by James Stoddard,

The Victorian mansion, Evenmere, is the mechanism that runs the universe.

The lamps must be lit, or the stars die. The clocks must be wound, or Time ceases. The Balance between Order and Chaos must be preserved, or Existence crumbles.

Appointed the Steward of Evenmere, Carter Anderson must learn the…

Want books like Human Action?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Human Action.

Browse books like Human Action

Book cover of Economics in One Lesson
Book cover of How the West Grew Rich: The Economic Transformation of the Industrial World
Book cover of The Machinery of Freedom: Guide to a Radical Capitalism

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,207

readers submitted
so far, will you?

Ad

📚 If you like Human Action, you might also like...

Book cover of December on 5C4

December on 5C4 by Adam Strassberg,

Magical realism meets the magic of Christmas in this mix of Jewish, New Testament, and Santa stories–all reenacted in an urban psychiatric hospital!

On locked ward 5C4, Josh, a patient with many similarities to Jesus, is hospitalized concurrently with Nick, a patient with many similarities to Santa. The two argue…

Book cover of Living On Purpose: Five Deliberate Choices to Realize Fulfillment and Joy

Living On Purpose by Amy Wong,

Many people from all walks of life, even after many accomplishments and experiences, are often plagued by dissatisfaction, pervasive longing, and deep questioning. These feelings may make them wonder if they are living the life they were meant to lead.

Living on Purpose is the guidebook these people have been…

5 book lists we think you will like!